Updated April 2026 · Diesel Automotive workshop notes
Belts and chains both keep the camshaft in time with the crankshaft, but they age differently and they cost very different amounts to replace. If you don't know which yours has, here's how to find out — and why it matters.
Send us your reg or VIN and we'll tell you within the working day. Or check:
These need replacing on the manufacturer interval — typically 60,000–100,000 miles, or 5–7 years.
These don't have a fixed mileage interval — they're replaced on symptoms (rattle on cold start, fault codes, stretched chain on diagnostic data) or as preventative maintenance at high mileage.
A planned timing belt replacement is usually far less costly than repairing damage after a belt failure. Ford 1.6 timing belts start from £359.99 including VAT; Ford 2.0 from £443.99 including VAT. Send your registration for an estimate.
If you have a chain: keep an ear out for cold-start rattle. Don't ignore correlation fault codes. Chain replacement is more involved (and more expensive) than a belt — but ignoring chain wear leads to even more expensive damage. See our timing chain replacement page.
Not sure what you've got? Send us your reg and we'll tell you, plus indicative pricing. Cambelt page · Timing chain page · Contact.
Send your reg and we'll come back the same day with what your engine has and what it'll cost.
Free collection & delivery within 10 miles when quoted repairs go ahead. Non-running vehicles included. If you decline the repair, the recovery fee agreed before collection is payable.